The Ultimate In-Home Newborn Session Checklist (Free Printable)

Because the sweetest photos happen when you’re calm, fed, and only half-awake.

A few weeks after my youngest was born, I opened the front door in yesterday’s yoga pants to greet my own newborn photographer. My house looked—well—lived-in, and I remember wishing someone had handed me a five-minute cheat sheet so I didn’t spend precious naptime scrubbing countertops that wouldn’t make it into a single frame. This post is that cheat sheet. Whether you’re rocking your first tiny bean in Kyle or wrangling a toddler in Buda or Dripping Springs, TX, here’s everything you need (and nothing you don’t) to prep for an effortless, light-filled lifestyle session at home.

10-Minute Tidy

• You’re not auditioning for a magazine spread—just clearing visual noise.

• Tuck phone chargers, burp cloths, and mail into a drawer

• Smooth the master-bed quilt and fluff two pillows

• Clear end tables in the nursery; leave one storybook or keepsake on display

• Open blinds all the way; switch off overhead cans (my strobes handle the rest)

Wardrobe Whisperer

Soft knits + timeless neutrals keep every focus on baby.

Who	Wear	Skip
Mom	Cream sweater, flowy dress, or knit robe	Busy patterns, neon logos
Dad	Solid tee or henley in white, beige, or charcoal	Athletic jerseys
Baby	Simple onesie + neutral wrap; back-up outfit on standby	Tight hats that leave red marks

Tip: Lay outfits on the bed before I arrive—I’ll choose what photographs best with your décor.

Light & Comfort

• Warm nursery to 75 °F; sleepy babies love a toasty room

• Stock a tiny fan or white-noise machine for soothing hums

• Keep a water bottle within arm’s reach for Mom—hydration is magic

Session Flow—Baby Leads the Way

When I walk through your door, we’ll read the room—literally. If baby is bright-eyed and ready for snuggles, we’ll begin with parent-child portraits and any sibling moments while everyone’s alert. If a full belly has lulled your little one toward dreamland, I’ll wrap them gently and capture those sweet, sleepy poses first. Either way, there’s no rush. We have a generous three-hour window to pause for feeding, soothe fussiness, or simply breathe. The pace—and the portraits—are guided by your newborn, ensuring calm parents, relaxed siblings, and beautifully crafted images you’ll cherish.

Quick FAQ

What if the house isn’t spotless?No judgment—newborn life is beautifully messy. We’ll photograph only the cleared-up corners.

How long will the session take?I reserve three hours so feedings and cuddle breaks set the pace, not the clock.

Can siblings or pets join?Yes! We’ll photograph siblings first so they can scamper off, then invite calm pets for a quick family frame.

Ready for images that feel as cozy as these early days? Reserve your Lifestyle Newborn Session here and let me bring the lights—plus the calm—to you.

Serving newborn families in Dripping Springs, Lakeway, South Austin, Kyle, Buda, Bee Cave, and the wider Texas Hill Country.